Campus News
Campus police officers, dispatchers recognized for lifesaving actions
Four UC Santa Cruz police officers and three dispatchers were honored on May 11 for their rapid response that saved the lives of two people in two incidents.
Four UC Santa Cruz police officers and three dispatchers were honored on May 11 for their rapid response that saved the lives of two people in two incidents.
“Today’s ceremony honors the extraordinary courage, compassion, and professionalism of our officers, dispatchers, and emergency responders whose decisive actions saved lives during moments of unimaginable crisis,” said UC Santa Cruz Police Chief Kevin Domby. “Their commitment reflects the very best of UC Santa Cruz and the public safety profession.”
On March 12, officers responded to a crash involving a student on a bicycle on Hagar Drive.
Dispatchers J. Lindblad and Cheryl Seldon received the call and Sgt. W. Clayton and Officer A. Heebner responded to the scene. They found the student unconscious, without a pulse and not breathing. They administered CPR and were able to restore a pulse. The student was taken to the hospital and survived. The officers received Lifesaving Medals and the dispatchers received a commendation from the police chief.
On April 21, officers responded to a call from a young woman who said she was going to commit suicide.
Dispatcher H. Faulk received a call, and Officer S. Mercado, trainee Officer J. Venzon, and Sgt. J. Watson responded, locating the woman on Cardiff Way. Officer Mercado and Sgt. Watson administered life saving measures until firefighters and paramedics arrived. The officers received Lifesaving Medals and the dispatcher received a commendation from the police chief.